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Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise that promotes endurance, muscle growth and a healthy cardiovascular system. No matter where you choose to swim, the fitness benefits are similar. Nevertheless, there are several factors to consider when deciding between pool and ocean swimming; your choice may impact the quality of your swim and, ultimately, its fitness benefits. It is imperative for safety that you master swimming in a pool prior to taking your swim routine to the ocean.

Swimming Pool Benefits

Swimming in a pool for fitness has numerous benefits. In comparison to ocean swimming, there is greater control which results in more focus on your swimming rather than your surroundings. Ideally, it will be a safe environment supervised by trained lifeguards in case of emergency. Additionally, you have the option of taking a break on the side if you feel too tired. The water temperature is regulated and generally maintain at a tolerable level conducive to swimming. Moreover, you can easily keep track of the distance you swim based on the measurement of the pool to ensure you are meeting your fitness goals. Even better, swimming in a pool gives you the option to swim indoors or out as many gyms, school and local community facilities have indoor pools.

Swimming Pool Drawbacks

Swimming in a pool can become monotonous, especially in indoor facilities. Moreover, there is usually a limited space for swimming laps so you may have to wait your turn. If you choose an outdoor location that also serves as a recreational facility, you may run into people more interested in swimming for fun, which could result in interference and interruptions. Recreational water illnesses are also a threat from germs in private and public pools despite chlorination.

Ocean Swimming Benefits

The variables of temperature, water density, waves and currents as well as ever changing surroundings can make ocean swimming both exciting and dangerous. Swimming in an ocean can help you swim more efficiently as your learn to master currents as well as challenge your strength against waves. The saltwater of the ocean influences your buoyancy, or the ability to stay afloat. The buoyancy of salt water helps to increase your swimming speed as you will be closer to the surface. Unlike pool swimming, the germ factor in oceans is usually not as serious due to water circulation. Nevertheless, illnesses can result from microscopic sea life or swallowing too much sea water. Free space is also a benefit to ocean swimming; if one area is crowded, you can easily move elsewhere to find a location for uninterrupted swim.

Ocean Swimming Drawbacks

Many of the benefits of ocean swimming have contrasting drawbacks. The ever changing surroundings that provide for a more interesting swim can also be dangerous. Rip currents and waves can increase the change of drowning. Additionally, waves that break on the shore called shorebreaks can result in neck and spine injuries. When you are swimming in the ocean, you are in a natural environment with little control of your surroundings. Weather and wildlife can greatly impact your swim through adverse conditions and possible injury. Although most marine life will stay away from people, it is important to be vigilant for predators like sharks and even smaller creatures such as rays, crabs and jellyfish who may injure you in self-defense. Supervision is mandatory for ocean swimming due to its unpredictability. However, many oceans do not have lifeguards.

About the Author

Jennifer Carr, MSHE specializes in health and wellness, fitness, nutrition, alternative medicine and treatment for substance abuse. She has served as a health-care communicator and recovery coach, providing support and guidance for individuals going through treatment for addictions. Carr completed her Master of Science in health education at Arcadia University. She graduated from Villanova University with a Bachelor of Arts.